Hunted by Nazis

Yelena is a widow who lives alone in her small apartment in Jerusalem. Her hardships began when she was born in a Ukrainian ghetto during the Holocaust.

Yelena explained, "My mother gave birth to me soon after the Nazis took over our community. We were hunted by the SS from the start."

Yelena's mother took her from house to house looking for any non-Jewish person willing to help. They hid under the floorboards as the SS conducted searches.

"My mother tried to give me her milk, but it was blood," said Yelena. "It was a miracle I didn't cry. If we had been discovered, we would have been shot right there."

Yelena and her mother survived the Holocaust. Years later, she got married and moved to Israel. Her husband recently passed away, and she can barely afford her apartment, and not much else. So, CBN Israel regularly takes her groceries and visits with her.

Yelena said, "I'm very happy when you come see me and bring me the wonderful food. It brightens my day."

We also invite Yelena and other Holocaust Survivors to social events we host in their honor. Christians play music for the survivors, listen to their stories, and share a meal with them. Yelena and the others get canes or walkers if they need them.

"Sometimes, I don't feel strong in my legs," said Yelena. "This cane helps keep me steady, so I don't fall. I'm so grateful you gave it to me."

Thanks to CBN Israel, Yelena is able to have a more active and fulfilling life.

Yelena said, "I say from all of us Holocaust survivors, ‘Thank you!' You give love and support through this food and these events. God bless you and may you have the same peace in your heart that you've given me."